Raphal Softaqua brushes are as lush and absorbent as the best squirrel hair brushes, but they’re made of a synthetic fiber that’s vegan and cruelty-free. Look closely and you’ll see that Raphal has replicated the wavy texture of squirrel hair, its coarseness, and its remarkably soft touch when wet. When dipped in watercolor, the Softaqua fibers cling together in a perfect shape, and when you touch them to the paper, they spread out evenly and allow for smooth transitions between thin and thick marks.

We’re pleased to offer Softaqua brushes in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, all with comfortable handles and the outstanding build quality you’d expect from an esteemed manufacturer like Raphal.

Please note that Raphal’s sizes may not correspond to brushes you already own. The scale images on this page are the best way to know which size to purchase. We’ve also provided approximate U.S. size equivalents in the brush size menu.

Sold individually.

About Raphal:

Founded in Paris in 1793, Raphal is the oldest fine art brush maker in Europe. Following the time honored tradition of master and apprentice, the highly skilled craftswomen of Raphal undergo intensive training before they are ready to produce a Raphal brush. The finest hairs and bristles are imported from all over the world and hand-sorted to ensure the highest quality.